Going to work every day can be agonizing if you are the subject of workplace discrimination and harassment. The toll it takes can affect your psychological and physical health, as well as your personal, professional, and financial well-being. No one should have to suffer this kind of treatment or combat it alone.
A St. Andrews employer discrimination lawyer can help you get justice when you are facing discriminatory conduct from your employer. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, our compassionate team is ready to help guide you through the legal process to recover your losses and seek fair treatment. When you hire a St. Andrews employment lawyer you receive a steadfast advocate from start to finish.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Governance of Employer Discrimination
When an employee is subjected to any unwanted behavior based on who they are, or suffer changes to the conditions, privileges, or terms of their employment status, this is considered discrimination and harassment. If an employer, or any individual acting as the employer’s proxy, engages in such behavior in the workplace, they may be held liable for damages as a result of causing a hostile workplace. If you have faced these behaviors, you may have the right to file a claim against your employer. Our lawyers at Shelly Leeke Law Firm can help.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) governs and combats discriminatory and harassing behavior in the workplace. In an effort to provide better protection for employees against their employers, they define what constitutes discrimination, who can be held liable, and what is needed to file a claim. In their recently updated direction on enforcement guidance on harassment in the workplace, they clearly state what constitutes harassment and discrimination.
When filing a claim against an employer, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission requires that claimants must establish that the discrimination they were subjected to was based on a protected characteristic and that the treatment they received was unwelcome. Additionally, claimants must also demonstrate how the discriminatory behavior was based on a protected characteristic, the negative effect it had on the claimant, and the role the employer played in allowing or contributing to the unfair treatment.
Types of Discrimination in the Workplace
Discriminatory conduct is often based on a set of characteristics that are legally protected in the workplace. Each characteristic is based on an aspect of an individual’s life that is intrinsic to who they are, is a lifestyle choice, or a condition beyond their control. Some of the most common characteristics that employees can be discriminated for include:
- Race.
- Color.
- National Origin.
- Genetic information.
- Disability.
- Sex.
- Age.
- Religion.
Discrimination and retaliation based on these characteristics are illegal both federally and on a state level. According to the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission discrimination is prohibited in all conduct relating to employment from hiring, to pay, to employment conditions, to discipline, and so much more. Reasonable accommodations must also be made for anyone who needs additional assistance.
How an Employer Can Discriminate Against Employees
Discrimination by an employer can come in many different forms, which can be subtle or highly conspicuous and egregious. Inappropriate comments, exclusion, retaliation, or negative financial actions can be just a few of the ways that an employer can discriminate against an employee. Employers who discriminate against their employees create a hostile work environment that results in employees suffering and experiencing negative effects on their wellbeing.
In an effort to prevent further treatment, employees can report the discrimination and harassment they have been subjected to in the workplace. Depending on the nature of the harassment, an employee can report the behavior to a trusted supervisor or an HR representative. If these steps have been disregarded or it is not safe to report the infractions to someone in the workplace, employees can also report the abuse to members of law enforcement or file a complaint online with the EEOC.
If you are not sure how to report the behavior or need representation moving forward, a St. Andrews employer discrimination attorney can be a valuable asset. They can assess the details of your situation and discuss your options with you. They can also provide legal advice on the best way to move forward.
How an Employer Discrimination Lawyer Can Fight for You
Harassment and discrimination is never acceptable and an employer discrimination lawyer in St. Andrews is ready to help you ensure this behavior is stopped and you get equitable treatment. Employer discrimination law is complex and a knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the legal process. A lawyer protects your rights so you do not get taken advantage of, and will negotiate a fair settlement so you can recover from this experience.
When you work with a lawyer, they can draw on their seasoned knowledge and vast network of connections to take action on your behalf. They will work diligently to investigate and build your case with sound and effective strategies, as well as file all necessary documentation in a timely manner. They will work to get you the maximum compensation possible and ensure your case is resolved within the applicable statute of limitations.
One effective tool that a lawyer may use when handling your case is mediation, and they can thoroughly explain what mediation is and how it works. This is a peaceable solution that is cost-effective and can reduce the amount of time it takes to resolve your case. In the event that mediation is not a sufficient solution, then your lawyer will represent you as your case moves onto litigation.
Hire Shelly Leeke Law Firm Today for Help with Your Case
Shelly Leeke Law Firm is ready to help you when you are fighting against workplace discrimination and harassment. An employer discrimination attorney in St. Andrews can provide you with legal advice to get you a favorable outcome based on our proven track record of case results. Contact one of our offices today to schedule a free consultation with our team and get the answers and representation you need.
